Maritime hatch

ABSTRACT

A two-way openable maritime hatch in which the articulating components that open the hatch, and hold it in an open position, are enclosed within a waterproof seal of the hatch when in closed position. The design uses a double hinge structure, which facilitates opening the hatch in either a forward- or aft-facing position. Elastic gaskets may be used to hold the hatch open in specific positions or at specific angles. Each of the hinge systems are independently operable.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. Utility patent applicationSer. No. 17/459,202, filed Aug. 27, 2021 and issued Jan. 3, 2023, asU.S. Pat. No. 11,541,965, which claims the benefit of U.S. Prov. Pat.No. 63/070,990, filed Aug. 27, 2020. The entire disclosures of both ofthese references are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

This disclosure is related to the field of boating, and moreparticularly to a two-way maritime hatch in which the articulatingcomponents are contained within a weatherproof seal when the hatch isclosed.

Description of the Related Art

Despite the convenience and prevalence of flight, boating remains apopular form of transportation, both for commercial and recreationalpurposes. Boats, like most other forms of conveyance, usually have anumber of windows, which serve both aesthetic and functional purposes.Windows permit those on the interior to enjoy the natural beauty aroundthem, as well as provide utility in permitting passengers inside thevessel to see what is going on outside. This can assist with spottingdangerous conditions, approaching weather, and so forth.

Some windows are also openable, which provides for emergency egress inthe event of a need to evacuate the vessel. Windows on a boat aregenerally water sealed and weatherproofed, which inhibits the intrusionof water or other moisture. Although this is a common feature of windowson many conveyances, it is particularly important on a boat which, byits nature, is always surrounded by water. The need for such windows tobe waterproofed is particularly acute for hatches, because waves andother sources of moisture can cause standing water to accumulate abovethe hatch, which can increase the risk of water intrusion.

Another useful function of the hatch is to provide ventilation to theinterior cabin of a vessel, which, again, is otherwise generallyweatherproofed, which inhibits the free flow of oxygen. A hatch istypically a rectangular window, usually constructed of acrylic, with awaterproof seal. Hatches are usually mounted between the interior cabinand the top deck of a vessel. A hatch is usually openable via a hingemounted on one edge, either facing forward or aft. The hatch typicallyswings open upwards by about 90 degrees for ventilation of the cabin.

A hatch generally has a metal rectangular base mounted to the deck usinga combination of adhesives and mechanical connections, such as hardware.A hinge bracket is mounted to the rectangular base. This hinge bracketis adapted to connect to a similar bracket mounted to a window element.The window element may have a metal outer ring, depending on the design.An environmental gasket is also included, either mounted to the base orto the window, again depending on the design. When the hatch is closed,the gasket is compressed, forming a watertight seal. The hatch can belocked in the closed position by a handle accessible from the inside.The handle is usually pivotably attached such that it may be twisted tolatch under a protruding element incorporated in the base or deck.

Hatches are typically equipped with a friction hinge. This mechanismuses an extendable cylinder disposed in the middle section of the hinge.As the cylinder is twisted, it extends and applies pressure to thesections of the hinge on opposing sides, which are mounted to the windowelement. The terminating ends of the cylinder protrude through thewindow section of the hinge and are slotted into mating features in theportion of the hinge mounted to the base. This engagement preventsrotation of the cylinder relative to the hinge portion mounted to thebase. The accumulation of pressure between the mating portion of thecylinder and the window hinge increases the friction in the hinge, whichassists with maintaining the window element in a desired orientation orposition by friction.

The extendable cylinder at the core of the hinge works in a mannersimilar to a screw and nut, and is sometimes referred to in the art as ajacking nut and bolt. The bolt is inserted into the nut, and as the nutis rotated, it slides proximal or distal to the bolt. Thus, the cylinderis comprised of two corresponding cylindrical bodies, a first body inthe nature of a bolt having a protruding external thread on its outersurface, and a second body in the nature of a nut, having acorresponding thread on its inner surface, where the first body isinserted into the second body. The friction can be adjusted by insertinga thin tool into a bore hole radially disposed in each body to counterrotate the elements.

The friction hinge mechanism may be supplemented by a secondary hingebracket that utilizes a spring to resist closing motion. This secondarybracket is usually much larger, and generally in a clamshellconfiguration mounted from the rectangular base frame to the windowelement, and usually inward of the environmental seal. The spring isconnected such that the spring is relaxed, or untensioned when thebracket is in “open” position. As the window element is rotated towardsclosed position (i.e., towards the rectangular base), the spring istensioned, and thereby resists closure of the hatch. Both elements workin tandem to support the window element in an open position, withoutfalling closed due to the pull of gravity, or the general motion of thevessel. Due to size constraints, the threads in the friction hingecenter cylinder are small, and the adjustment tool holes are also small.

Over time and repeated use, the cylinder may begin to relax, or thethreaded portion may begin to back out and not engage as firmly, causingthe friction cylinder to eventually begin to lose its ability to applypressure, and fail. Also, the friction hinge is located exterior to theenvironmental seal, and thus is not protected from the marineenvironment. Water, and especially saltwater, is hard on metals, and theparts eventually corrode. Once corroded, the small threads may seize inplace, which allows the hinge to open fully, including beyond its designrange. When the hatch is opened beyond the design range, the windowpivots over the deck, which acts as a fulcrum and applies a leverageforce to the base and hinge. This eventually results in completemechanical failure of the hatch.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The following is a summary of the invention in order to provide a basicunderstanding of some aspects of the invention. This summary is notintended to identify key or critical elements of the invention or todelineate the scope of the invention. The sole purpose of this sectionis to present some concepts of the invention in a simplified form as aprelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

Because of these and other problems in the art, described herein, amongother things, is a maritime hatch comprising: a base element in theconfiguration of a frame surrounding a central opening, the base elementhaving a bottom side and an opposing top side; a weatherproofing elementhaving a bottom side and an opposing top side, the bottom side of theweatherproofing element disposed on the top side of the base element,and the weatherproofing element disposed along the frame and surroundingthe central opening; a window element comprising a top side and anopposing bottom side; an opening system attaching the window element tothe base element, the opening system comprising: a first base hingeelement rotatably attached to the base element at a first corner of thebase element; a second base hinge element rotatably attached to the baseelement at a second corner of the base element, the second corner of thebase element being adjacent to the first corner of the base element; afirst window hinge element rotatably attached to the window element at afirst corner of the window element, the first window hinge elementconnected to the first base hinge element by a first connection arm; asecond window hinge element rotatably attached to the window element ata second corner of the window element, the second corner of the windowelement being adjacent to the first corner of the window element, andthe second window hinge element connected to the second base hingeelement by a second connection arm; wherein the first base hingeelement, the first window hinge element, and the first connection armare a mirror image of the second base hinge element, the second windowhinge element, and the second connection arm; wherein the window elementis sized and shaped such that when the hatch is closed, the windowelement is held against the top side of the weatherproofing element toform a seal effective to inhibit moisture penetration between theweatherproofing element and window element.

In an embodiment, the base element is generally in the configuration ofa rounded rectangle.

In a further embodiment, the base element is sized and shaped tofacilitate passage of an adult human through the central opening.

In a further embodiment, the window element is generally planer.

In a further embodiment, the window element is transparent.

In a further embodiment, the window element is translucent.

In a further embodiment, when the hatch is closed, the window elementheld against the top side of the weatherproofing element forms awatertight seal.

In a further embodiment, the weatherproofing element comprises a rubbergasket.

In a further embodiment: the base element further comprises at least onelocking element disposed in the base element; and the window elementfurther comprises at least one latch pivotably disposed on the bottomside of the window element, the at least one latch comprising a handleelement and a latching extension; wherein the handle element is operableto rotate the latching extension to be received by the at least onelocking element when the hatch is closed.

In a further embodiment, the at least one latch comprises four latches,each latch of the four latches disposed adjacent a corresponding lockingelement in the base element.

In a further embodiment, the first base hinge element and the secondbase hinge element are coaxially attached to the base element at a firstaxle of rotation.

In a further embodiment, when the first base hinge element and thesecond base hinge element are rotated at the first axle of rotation, thewindow element opens in a first direction hinged at the first axle ofrotation.

In a further embodiment, the first window hinge element and the secondwindow hinge element are coaxially attached to the window element at asecond axle of rotation.

In a further embodiment, when the first window hinge element and thesecond window hinge element are rotated at the second axle of rotation,the window element opens in a second direction hinged at the second axleof rotation.

In a further embodiment, the first base hinge element and the secondbase hinge element are operable independently of the first window hingeelement and the second window hinge element.

In a further embodiment, the first direction and second direction areopposing directions.

In a further embodiment, the first base hinge element and the secondbase hinge element each comprise an elastic gasket disposed therein, theelastic gasket imparting compressive friction to each of the first basehinge element and the second base hinge element effective to preventrotation of the first base hinge element and the second base hingeelement under the force of gravity alone.

In a further embodiment, the first window hinge element and the secondwindow hinge element each comprise an elastic gasket disposed therein,the each elastic gasket imparting compressive friction to each of thefirst window hinge element and the second window hinge element effectiveto inhibit rotation of the first window hinge element and the secondwindow hinge element under the force of gravity alone.

In a further embodiment, when the hatch is closed, the opening system iscontained within the weatherproofing element and the window element.

In a further embodiment, the hatch is installed on a vessel to cover aporthole.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a maritime hatch according to thepresent disclosure in a partially opened position.

FIG. 2 provides a side elevation schematic view of a maritime hatchaccording to the present disclosure in a partially opened position.

FIG. 3 provides a side elevation schematic view of a maritime hatchaccording to the present disclosure in an open position on one side.

FIG. 4 provides a side elevation cutaway view of a maritime hatchaccording to the present disclosure in closed position.

FIG. 5 provides a detailed schematic view of a portion of the maritimehatch of FIG. 4 .

FIG. 6 depicts a side elevation schematic view of a maritime hatchaccording to the present disclosure in forward open position.

FIG. 7 depicts a detailed cross section view of the arm linkage jointand locking mechanism of a maritime hatch according to the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 8 depicts a detailed side view of the opening mechanism subassemblyof a maritime hatch according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 depicts a detailed view of the opening mechanism subassembly of amaritime hatch according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 depicts an exploded view of a bi-directional opening mechanismfor a maritime hatch according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 depicts an isometric assembled view of a maritime hatchaccording to the present disclosure using the bi-directional openingmechanism of FIG. 10 , with a detail callout of a first hinge systemthereof.

FIG. 12 depicts the detail callout of the first hinge system of thehatch of FIG. 11 .

FIG. 13 depicts an isometric assembled view of a maritime hatchaccording to the present disclosure using the bi-directional openingmechanism of FIG. 10 , with a detail callout of a second hinge systemthereof.

FIG. 14 depicts the detail callout of the first hinge system of thehatch of FIG. 13 .

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)

The following detailed description and disclosure illustrates by way ofexample and not by way of limitation. This description will clearlyenable one skilled in the art to make and use the disclosed systems andmethods, and describes several embodiments, adaptations, variations,alternatives and uses of the disclosed systems and methods. As variouschanges could be made in the above constructions without departing fromthe scope of the disclosures, it is intended that all matter containedin the description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall beinterpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

Described herein, among other things, is a two-way openable maritimehatch in which the articulating components that open the hatch, and holdit in an open position, are enclosed within a waterproof seal of thehatch when in closed position, which inhibits corrosion, improveslifespan, and provides easier maintenance and field repair.

FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of a maritime hatch according to thepresent disclosure. In the depicted embodiment, the hatch (101)comprises a base element (103) and a window element (105) attached toeach other via an opening system (113). The opening system (113) isdescribed in further detail elsewhere herein. In the depicted embodimentof a hatch (101), the base element (103) is generally in theconfiguration of a rectangular frame surrounding a central opening(102). The particular dimensions of the base element (103) and opening(102) will vary from embodiment to embodiment depending upon theintended use of the hatch (101). For a small ventilation hatch (101),for example, the dimensions may be too small to permit passage of ahuman. However, a hatch (101) is typically sized and shaped to allow atypical adult human to pass through it, so that the hatch (101) canprovide emergency egress functions. Although the depicted base element(103) is the configuration of a rectangular frame (103), in analternative embodiment, other shapes may be used, including otherpolygonal configurations, as well as circular or ovoid configurations.

In the depicted embodiment, the window element (105) is a flat, planarelement, generally transparent or translucent, and generally sized andshaped to have the same or similar dimensions and general shape as thebase element (103). This facilitates the weather tight seal by ensuringthat when the hatch (101) is closed, the window element (105) completelysurrounds the exterior of the base element (103), so that aweatherproofing element (107) can inhibit the penetration of moisture orother environmental elements through the hatch (101). Although atranslucent or transparent window element (105) is shown, not allhatches are required to be translucent or transparent, and a hatch maybe opaque in an embodiment.

In the depicted embodiment of FIG. 1 , the rectangular base element(103) comprises a weatherproofing element (107). In the depictedembodiment, the weatherproofing element (107) is disposed on a raisedlid or lip about a perimeter of the base element (103). The depictedweatherproofing element (107) is sized, shaped, and positioned on thebase such that when the window element (105) is closed and locked, theweatherproofing element (107) provides a watertight seal. Examples ofsuch weatherproofing elements are known in the art and include, withoutlimitation, rubber gaskets.

In the depicted embodiment of FIG. 1 , the window element (105) furthercomprises a plurality of locking handles or latches (109) disposed onthe bottom side of the window element (105). The bottom side is the sidethat faces the cabin interior when the hatch (101) is closed, allowingpassengers or crew to operate the latches (109) while inside the cabin.In the depicted embodiment, four latches (109) are shown, but, in analternative embodiment, fewer or more latches may be used, dependingupon the particular design needs. Generally, enough latches (109) areprovided to establish a firm connection between the window element (105)and the base element (103) sufficient to cause the mating of the windowelement (105) to the weatherproofing element (107) to be waterresistant, watertight, waterproof, or to otherwise inhibit moisturepenetration between the waterproofing element (107) and window element(105). The depicted latches (109) comprise a handle element and acorresponding latching extension. The handle may be rotated to lock thewindow element (105), such as by said handle extending beyond theexterior perimeter of the window element (105), sliding into acorresponding locking element (111) disposed in the base element (103),or causing an attached latching extension to slide into a lockingelement (111).

In the depicted embodiment, this locking element (111) is essentially ahorizontal channel sized and shaped to receive the distal end of thehandles of the latches (109) or the latching extension. As can be seenin the figure, these elements are typically disposed within the interiorof the base element (103) such that they are protected by theweatherproofing element (107) when the hatch (101) is closed.

The design for the opening system (113) described herein provides afully field serviceable mechanism. All components can be easilydisassembled and reassembled with common tools. Certain components ofthe opening mechanism are protected from the environment when the hatchis closed to inhibit corrosion-related performance degradation.

At a high level of generality, the design uses a double hinge structure,which facilitates opening the hatch in either a forward- or aft-facingposition. This differs from prior art designs, in which a hinge isdisposed on one of two opposing edges of the base, and cannot be moved,allowing the hatch to open in only one direction. This has the problemof minimizing airflow when the wind is blowing from the mountingdirection.

By contrast, the present design allows the hatch to be opened tomaximize airflow depending upon which direction the wind is blowingrelative to the orientation of the vessel. As can be seen in thedepicted embodiment of FIG. 1 , and as further described elsewhereherein with respect to the other drawings, the opening system (113)comprises a first pair of hinge systems (115) disposed at a first pairof opposing or adjacent corners of the base element (103) and a secondpair of hinge elements (117) disposed at opposing or adjacent corners ofthe window element (105). As used herein, the term “adjacent” will beunderstood as referring to corners that are geometrically adjacent inthe overall shape of the referenced object (i.e., as opposed to beingdisposed diagonally opposite or having a third corner disposed between).The first set of hinge mechanisms (115) are disposed at an edge opposingthe edge to which the second set of hinge elements (117) are attached.These two sets of hinge mechanisms (115) and (117) are each connected toone another via a connection arm (119).

Each of the two sets of hinges (115) and (117) can operateindependently. Thus, in the depicted embodiment of FIG. 1 , the windowelement (105) can be opened at the left side by rotating the second setof hinge elements (117), but not the first set of hinge elements (115).And, conversely, the window element (105) can be opened from the rightside by rotating the first set of hinge elements (115), but not thesecond set of hinge elements (117).

This arrangement can be further seen in FIG. 2 , which provides a sideelevation schematic view of both hinge elements being partially operatedat the same time. As seen in the drawings, the connection arms (119) runalong the length of the major access of the hatch (101), to connect thehinges disposed at opposing ends thereof. When the first set of hinges(115) is operated, the connection arm (119) is raised with the windowelement (105). By contrast, when the second set of hinge elements (117)are operated, the connection arm (119) stays in place disposed alongsidethe interior of the base element (103), and does not raise.

The depicted hatch assembly is comprised of six main components: awindow element (105), a base element (103), hinge systems (115) and(117), a connection arm (119), a weatherproofing element (107), andlatches (109). These are assembled using mechanical hardware and/oradhesives. Gaskets, or O-rings, are incorporated at moving interfacesand where environmental seal is required. The base may be comprised ofmachined or formed metal in a rectangular shape with rounded corners. Incross section, the base presents a lip, which rests horizontally on thedeck, and a vertical lip on the inner perimeter, which protrudesdownward, locating the base in the deck cutout.

The base element (103) incorporates a mounting pad for the hingebracket, which connects to the hinge and connection arm. Around thehorizontal perimeter is a groove, which serves as a guide for theadhesion of an environmental gasket. Features that interact with thewindow locking mechanism are incorporated at specific locations aroundthe inner perimeter. These locking features may appear as protrusions orrecessions in the base frame. The window is a rectangular panel withrounded corners, which is translucent and tinted. It is generally flatbut may have complex machined features or geometry. Typically, this isconstructed of acrylic but can be constructed of other materials, suchas fiberglass or teak.

The components of the depicted hinge systems (115) and (117) areassembled in a “four-bar” configuration. This allows for controlledmotion of the hatch (101). By defining the ratio of bar lengths withrespect to each other, the opening motion of the hatch (101) causes thewindow element (105) to move vertically as well as rotate. The depictedunit is comprised of four linkages, with two of these linkages on theforward edge and two on the aft edge. In certain embodiments, it ispossible for the dual hinge mechanism to provide sufficient additionalfreedom of motion to provide the ability to lie flat even in cases wherethe deck is at a slightly higher level than the plane of the base.

To provide the function of the window element (105) remaining in thedesired position, the depicted hinges use the compression of elasticgaskets to provide sufficient friction in the hinge. The hinge bracketcontains a hole. The mating piece, which attaches from the connectingbar, is a protrusion of mirrored geometry with smaller diameter, knownas the “pin.” A cylindrical elastomer gasket is inserted around the pinand fills the remaining space between the outer diameter of the pin andthe inner diameter of the hole. The arm piece is inserted into thebracket and retained by a cap and screw from the opposite side, which isscrewed into the arm piece and set in place with a retaining or keyingfeature. The mounted bracket is then captive, and the elastic gasketcenters the parts along the same axis. Rotating the hinge requiresenough force to overcome the force of friction created by thecompression of the gasket. The hinge systems are located on oppositesides of the hatch assembly. The hinge systems connects the forward edgeof the base to the aft edge of the window, or visa-versa. The hingesystems consist of two connection bars (known as “legs”), brackets toconnect the necessary legs to either the window or the base frame, and along connection bar, called the “arm.” The cylindrical mating surfacesof the arms, legs, or brackets have a smooth finish. Friction isachieved through the implementation of a gasket material between the twointerfacing parts or by direct contact of the rotating parts. The forceapplied by assembly fasteners increases the friction at the materialinterfaces (either through additional compression of the gasket ordirectly to the rotating body). Gaskets may also be incorporated toprotect the rotation features from wear and environmental elements. Thehinge mechanism is used both at the deck mount and at the window mount,on either ends of the support arm.

Two sets of locking mechanisms are provided in this design as opposed toone set in traditional designs because no edge of the hatch window ismounted directly to the lower frame. Similar methods are applied as intraditional hatches to latch the window in the closed position. A handlerotates from the unlocked to locked position by moving a protrusion fromthe handle under a lip in the base. The handle is assembled through ahole in the window and sealed with an environmental gasket. The handleis mounted on the underside of the window, so as to be accessible frominside. When rotated, a protrusion on the handle contacts the lockingfeature on the base and as the handle protrusion is rotated furtheralong the groove in the base, a downward force is created to compressthe environmental seal for the hatch. Multiple handles are incorporatedin the design depending on hatch size. In most cases a minimum of twohandles (forward and aft) are required due to the dual hinge mechanism.

The following description is provided with respect to the detailed viewsof the hinge systems shown in FIGS. 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14 . As can beseen in the exploded view of FIG. 10 , the hatch (101) opens and closes,and the two-way feature is accomplished by means of a pair of opposinghinge systems (1001A) and (1001B). The depicted hinge systems (1001A)and (1001B) are generally similar and use similar components, but theyare attached to the respective mounting points differently. The depictedfirst hinge system (1001A) is adapted for attaching to the base element(103). In the depicted embodiment, this is done by use of an auxiliarybar (123). In an alternative embodiment, the hinge system (1001A) may beattached directly to the base element (103). However, it may bedifficult to machine the necessary receivers directly into the baseelement (103), due to geometric limitations in production machines. Assuch, it may be more cost-effective, in certain embodiments, to use anauxiliary bar (123) to provide a cost-effective means for mounting thehinge system (1001A) to the base element (103).

The depicted first hinge system (1001A) is comprised of a pair of legs(121A) and (121B). Each of the depicted legs has a first pin (122A)disposed at a first end thereof, and a second pin (122B) disposed at anopposing end thereof. In the depicted embodiment of FIG. 10 , the pins(122) of the second leg (121B) are disposed in receivers in theauxiliary bar (123) and the connection arm (119). As can be seen in theFIGs., the pins (122) are sized and shaped to be received by acorresponding receiver in the respective component. The auxiliary bar(123) (or, in an alternative embodiment, the base element (103))comprises a pair of receivers adapted to receive the first pin (122A) ofthe first leg (121A) and the first pin of the second leg (121B). Thereceivers in the depicted auxiliary bar (123) are disposed at opposingends thereof, and the auxiliary bar (123) is affixed to the base element(103) via hardware (135). The second pin (122B) of the first leg (121A)and the second pin of the second leg (121B) are each disposed incorresponding receivers disposed in the connection arm (119).

As can be seen in the drawings, these two legs (121A) and (121B) work intandem to rotate at the receivers and provide the hinging functionality.That is, the first pin (122A) in the first arm (121A) and the first pinin the second leg (121B) rotate within the receivers in the auxiliarybar (123), causing the opposing ends of the legs (121A) and (121B) torotate through an arc, which in turn causes the second pin (122B) in thefirst leg (121A) and the second pin in the second leg (121B) to rotatewithin their respective receivers in the connection arm (119).

As will be clear to a person of ordinary skill in the art, it isdesirable to have a means or mechanism for holding the hatch (101) inopen position, and preferably at a particular angle selected by theuser. This functionality is provided by means of an elastic gasket (125)which is disposed between the pins (122) and the receivers (133).Although elastic gaskets are well known in the art as serving thefunction of encouraging or facilitating movement, in the depictedembodiment, the friction of the gasket provides a holding force thatmaintains the hatch in the position selected by the user.

By determining the hardness value of the elastomeric material and theoverall percent of compression of the gasket, the force of frictionrequired to hold the desired position can be established by design. Thisdesign defines a friction of the linkages in such a way that anadditional support rod is not required. This is desirable to reduce theamount of material present when entering the hatch (101) from the sides.This differs from prior art linkages, which are considered to be“frictionless” and to lack holding force. Instead, prior art designsrely on the addition of a support bar, such as pneumatic, hydraulic, orspring loaded support arm to provide holding force. Such prior artsupport bars are known as a “stay”, and would be in the way of the userin the setting of a maritime hatch.

This design defines the friction of the linkages in such a way that anadditional support rod is not required. This is desirable to reduce theamount of material present when entering the hatch from the sides.

To further facilitate this functionality, and to limit the amount ofcounter-rotation pressure, the pins (122) are held in the receivers byuse of a washer (127) and fastener (129), typically a threaded screw.The screw (129) is screwed into a receiver in the pin (122), and thewasher is disposed there between.

In the depicted embodiment, the distal end of the pins (122) may have aflattened element, such as a chord, which provides a keying function.The flattened edge of the pin (122) may correspond and coordinate with acorresponding flat edge of the washer (127), which reduces the amount ofcounter-rotation force on the screw. This helps to reduce stress on thescrew during motion and inhibit “back-out” where the rotating motion ofthe hinge causes the screw to become gradually unfastened. Keying mayalso be achieved in other embodiments through geometry other than thatdescribed above, including but not limited to concave or convexprotrusions.

In the depicted embodiment, the locking feature shown in FIG. 7 providesa geometry of the pins (122) and washers (127) effective to inhibitrotation relative to one another. In this way, the fastener (129) issimilarly inhibited from rotating relative to the pin (122) because itis in contact with the washer (127) as well as the pin (122). Thisinhibits the washer (127) from rotating with the bracket due to frictionwhen the hinge is rotated. This also assists with inhibiting thefastener from “backing out” or unscrewing itself by being rotatedrelative to the threads. Additionally, the depicted geometry causes theuser to apply an amount of force effective to overcome the force offriction applied between the washer (127) and the components of thebracket system. This frictional force assists the force of frictioncreated by the elastic gasket (125) to hold the hatch in place.

As can be seen in the depicted embodiments, the depicted first leg(121A) is generally in the configuration of an elongated element and thepins (122) are generally in the configuration of cylinders, except forthe keying element. The depicted pins (122) are disposed as opposingends of the first leg (121A), and protrude generally perpendicularlytherefrom, and are generally in parallel.

The depicted second leg (121B) has a different geometry. In the depictedembodiment, the second leg (121B) has pins at opposing ends, but thepins extend from the opposing ends in opposite directions. The depictedsecond leg (121B) has its first pin perpendicularly attached to a firstend of the leg. The depicted first end is generally in the configurationof a thin rectangular prism, with the first pin extending generallyperpendicularly from a first side thereof. The depicted second leg(121B) further comprises a body element also generally in theconfiguration of a thin rectangular prism, and attached at a right angleto the first end element (141). The dimensions of the first end element(141) and middle element (143) are configured so that when the secondleg (121B) rotates around the second leg pin (122B) there is sufficientclearance for the second leg (121B) with respect to the auxiliary bar(123) and/or the hatch frame.

As can be further seen in FIG. 12 , attached to the middle element (143)is an angled element (145). The depicted angled element (145) is alsogenerally in the configuration of a thin rectangular prism and isattached to the middle element (143) at an obtuse angle. As can be seenin the figure, the angled element (145) angles away from the first endelement (141). Attached to the angled element (145) is a second endelement (147) to which is attached the second pin (122B) of the secondleg (121B). The depicted second end element (147) is also generally inthe configuration of a thin rectangular prism, and is generally in aparallel plane to the first end element (141). As can be seen in thedrawings, the distal ends of the first end element (141) and second endelement (147) may be rounded. Also, as can be seen in FIG. 12 , thesecond pin (122B) of the second leg (121B) extends generallyperpendicularly from the plane of the second end element (147) and in adirection opposite the direction that the first pin (122A) of the secondleg (121B) extends from the plane of the first end element (141).

The dimensions of all of the four component elements of the second leg(121B) are generally engineered to provide sufficient clearance when thehinge system (1001A) is in motion, and to provide adequate storagevolume for the components of the hinge system (1001A) when the hatch(101) is closed. In particular, as can be seen in FIG. 12 , the lengthof the angled element (145) and the second end element (147), along withthe angles in question, provide sufficient clearance so that when thehatch (101) is closed, the end of the connection arm (119) can be stowedbetween the auxiliary bar (123) and the inside surface of the baseelement (103). It will be readily understood that other configurations,lengths, and shapes of the second leg (121B) are possible and may besuitable in an alternative embodiment to achieve the same functionalitywithin a base element (103) having a different geometry. Thesestructures also facilitate the storage of the rotating elements of thehinge system (1001A) within the weatherproof seal beneath the windowelement (105).

As can be seen in FIG. 14 , the second hinge system (1001B) usesessentially similar components, except that instead of mounting thefirst leg (121A) and second leg (121B) to an auxiliary bar (123), thelegs (121A and 121B) are mounted to a window-mounting element (131). Thedepicted window mounting element (131) is adapted for rigidly mountingto the window element (105), and comprises a pair of opposing receiversfor accepting the first pin (122A) of the first leg (121A) and the firstpin (122A) of the second leg (121B). In the depicted embodiment, thesecond pins (122B) of both the first leg (121A) and second leg (121B)are disposed in receivers machined into mounting structure (137) whichcomprises a portion of the connection arm (119).

In the depicted embodiment, the structure of the legs (121A) and (121B)in the second hinge system (1001B) are generally the same as those ofthe first hinge system (1001A). This simplifies manufacturing and lowerscosts, while also making it simpler to repair and maintain the windowsby providing interchangeable parts. Thus, the description of the twodepicted legs (121A) and (121B) with respect to the first hinge system(1001A) generally applies to the components depicted in FIG. 14 as well.

As can be seen in FIG. 14 , the window-mounting element (131) mounts thehinge system (1001B) to the window element (105), whereas the firsthinge system (1001A) is shown in FIG. 12 adjacent to the window element(105), but not mounted to it. This allows the first hinge assembly to berotated to open the window element (105) in a first direction oppositethe location of the first hinge system (1001A) and/or to allow thesecond hinge system (1001B) to open the window element (105) in adirection opposite the location of the second hinge system (1001B). Aswith the first hinge system (1001A), the window element (105) is held inplace in open position using elastic gaskets (125), and similar keyingfeatures that cooperate with the washer (127) and screw (129).

These components work together to facilitate the two-way openingfunction of the hatch window, while also storing the moving pieceswithin the weatherproof seal when the hatch is closed.

The depicted assemblies of FIGS. 10 through 14 concern only one side ofthe hatch. As seen in the other figures, a mirrored set of components isdisposed at the opposing side of the hatch to provide two points ofrotation for the window element (105). Also, because the hatch (101) canopen from either end, a set of latches (109) are provided at each end ofthe hatch (101), which can lock into place in a manner that would befamiliar to one of ordinary skill in the art. In the depictedembodiment, four total handles are provided to ensure a good seal, butin alternative embodiments, more or fewer handles may be provided,depending upon the size and shape of the window element (105).

While the invention has been disclosed in conjunction with a descriptionof certain embodiments, including those that are currently believed tobe the preferred embodiments, the detailed description is intended to beillustrative and should not be understood to limit the scope of thepresent disclosure. As would be understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art, embodiments other than those described in detail herein areencompassed by the present invention. Modifications and variations ofthe described embodiments may be made without departing from the spiritand scope of the invention.

1. A hatch comprising: a base frame surrounding a central opening; aweatherproofing element disposed on said base frame and surrounding saidcentral opening; a window element; and an opening system attaching saidwindow element to said base frame and comprising: a first base hingeelement rotatably attached to said base frame at a first corner of saidbase element; a second base hinge element rotatably attached to saidbase frame at a second corner of said base frame; a first window hingeelement rotatably attached to said window element at a first corner ofsaid window element, said first window hinge element connected to saidfirst base hinge element by a first connection arm; and a second windowhinge element rotatably attached to said window element at a secondcorner of said window element, and said second window hinge elementconnected to said second base hinge element by a second connection arm;wherein said window element is sized and shaped such that when saidhatch is closed, said window element is held against saidweatherproofing element to form a seal effective to inhibit moisturepenetration between said weatherproofing element and window element. 2.The hatch of claim 1, wherein said base frame is generally in aconfiguration of a rounded rectangle.
 3. The hatch of claim 1, whereinsaid base frame is sized and shaped to facilitate passage of an adulthuman through said central opening.
 4. The hatch of claim 1, whereinwhen said hatch is closed, said window element held against saidweatherproofing element forms a watertight seal.
 5. The hatch of claim1, wherein said weatherproofing element comprises a rubber gasket. 6.The hatch of claim 1, wherein: said base frame comprises at least onelocking element; and said window element comprises at least one latchcomprising a handle element and a latching extension; wherein saidhandle element is operable to rotate said latching extension to bereceived by said at least one locking element when said hatch is closed.7. The hatch of claim 6, wherein said at least one latch comprises fourlatches, each latch of said four latches disposed adjacent acorresponding locking element in said base element.
 8. The hatch ofclaim 1, wherein said first base hinge element and said second basehinge element are coaxially attached to said base element at a firstaxis of rotation.
 9. The hatch of claim 8, wherein when said first basehinge element and said second base hinge element are rotated at saidfirst axis of rotation, said window element opens in a first directionhinged at said first axis of rotation.
 10. The hatch of claim 9, whereinsaid first window hinge element and said second window hinge element arecoaxially attached to said window element at a second axis of rotation.11. The hatch of claim 10, wherein when said first window hinge elementand said second window hinge element are rotated at said second axis ofrotation, said window element opens in a second direction hinged at saidsecond axis of rotation.
 12. The hatch of claim 11, wherein said firstbase hinge element and said second base hinge element are operableindependently of said first window hinge element and said second windowhinge element.
 13. The hatch of claim 12, wherein said first directionand second direction are opposing directions.
 14. The hatch of claim 1,wherein said first window hinge element and said second window hingeelement are coaxially attached to said window element at an axis ofrotation.
 15. The hatch of claim 14, wherein when said first windowhinge element and said second window hinge element are rotated at saidaxis of rotation, said window element opens in a direction hinged atsaid axis of rotation.
 16. The hatch of claim 1, wherein said first basehinge element and said second base hinge element each comprise anelastic gasket imparting compressive friction to each of said first basehinge element and said second base hinge element effective to inhibitrotation of said first base hinge element and said second base hingeelement.
 17. The hatch of claim 6, wherein said first window hingeelement and said second window hinge element each comprise an elasticgasket imparting compressive friction to each of said first window hingeelement and said second window hinge element effective to inhibitrotation of said first window hinge element and said second window hingeelement.
 18. The hatch of claim 1, wherein when said hatch is closed,said opening system is contained within said weatherproofing element andsaid window element.
 19. The hatch of claim 1, wherein said hatch isinstalled on a vessel to cover a porthole.
 20. The hatch of claim 1,wherein said window element is transparent or translucent.